Why GGU:
Online Learning

GGU offers many of its courses online, providing cutting-edge courses taught by professionals
working in their fields. The online format allows you to complete your coursework
with a certain degree of flexibility, wherever and whenever convenient.

THE VIRTUAL CLASSROOM

Using the online learning platform, students access course materials, view videos
or other multimedia content, and participate in course activities and projects. Students
communicate with the instructor and with each other through threaded discussion forums,
an essential part of every online course. Students are expected to contribute thoughtful,
meaningful dialog in the threaded discussions at least once a week.

If you're brand new to online learning we invite you to try a mini demo class. This
short demonstration class lets you take a look at the online interface while also
teaching you some of the basics of being a successful online student.

FAQ

Are GGU's online programs accredited?

Golden Gate University offers individual courses, degree programs and professional
certificates online that are accredited by the WASC Senior College and University
Commission. Although the online format is different than a traditional classroom experience,
the courses are the same as those offered at any Golden Gate University location.
Online courses are taught by the same faculty and are held to the same rigorous academic
standards as courses offered in traditional classroom settings.

What are the types of online courses?

There are 4 types of courses at GGU that contain an online component:

Entirely Online: Courses in which no in-person classroom presence is required.

Mixed Mode: Courses that mix online learning with one or more in-person sessions.

Blended: Intensive courses in the 8-week term that combine weekly in-class meetings
with online course sessions

WebEnhanced: A traditional in-person course that also uses the online platform to
facilitate some course activities or deliver content.

How do I take exams?

Many courses that are entirely online (no in-person class sessions) will have at least one supervised (proctored) exam
per term. The supervised exam may be paper-based or Web-based and can be supervised
at the GGU San Francisco campus, a Consortium of College Testing Centers exam site, or by using ProctorU, an online proctoring service.

What course materials will I need and where will I purchase them?

For most courses, you will be able to order books from the GGU Bookstore. Other course
materials may be made available through GGU Library course reserves, or by your instructor.

Will I have any contact with my classmates?

Limited class size and use of the online classroom enable faculty to create a seminar-style
environment in which students interact with each other as much as they do with their
professor. Since discussions are asynchronous (simultaneous participation is not necessary),
you can ask questions as they arise and contribute to discussions within the parameters
communicated by your instructor.

Can I contact an instructor if I need help?

You can contact an instructor through the online course environment, by e-mail and
by phone, or the help desk at elearninghelp@ggu.edu. Online students also have access to a 24/7 helpdesk that supports students with
live Web chat, e-mails, FAQs, and toll-free phone assistance.